10-14-2023

Nelson Mandela Bear was made in 2019 and put away to be used as Bear #200,000. Amy would fly to Johannesburg for the occasion.

She did just that, on October 22, 2023, and Nelson Mandela Bear is now displayed permanently at the Nelson Mandela Children Hospital in Johannesburg.

While visiting various sites, Amy also took pictures of Madiba Bear to introduce him to the man after whom he was named, and to make him become part of the homeland.

Nelson Mandela, I hope I contributed a tiny, tiny bit to your vision that every child should have a safe place. Sometimes this safe place can only be inside of us and a bear is something to hold on to when times get tough, and something to include in celebrations when times are good. A teddy bear protects what is inside of us, keeps us safe, and loves us.

Thank you Amy, one more time, for giving us a chance to be the protectors of children in need of love and affection.